Stihl Overheating Motor or Belt Slippage

Strong burning smell during operation, sometimes accompanied by light smoke from vents

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

Possible Causes

Seized brush roller causing belt to burn, clogged air vents, failing motor windings, foreign material contacting heater

Safety: Turn off and unplug the unit immediately. Do not continue to operate until the cause is found.

Check brush and belt: Remove the bottom plate and inspect the belt and brush. Replace any belt that is melted or heavily glazed. Ensure the brush spins freely.
Clean vents: Vacuum dust from all motor and heater vents.
Smell source: Try to localize the odor to the brush area, motor housing, or heater. If the motor housing is extremely hot or discolored, the motor may be failing and should be replaced.

Medium 3/5

Brush Drive Belt

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